Picture this: the sun is shining, a steady breeze is blowing, you’re rocking your newest fit, the SPF is doing its job, all is well with the world… there’s just one problem. Your hair is tangled, shedding, and more dry than you’d care to admit. The good news? Your problems are entirely preventable! Read on for top tips to care for your hair extensions during summertime and the heat that follows.
Use Hair-Friendly SPF
Using a UV protection spray that’s specifically designed for human hair helps prevent sun damage and is a necessary step in your hair care routine during hotter months.
Protect from Sun Exposure
One of the best ways to prevent damage before it starts is to cover your hair and extensions. Rock a cute hat or scarf when you’re out and about in the sun for long periods of time. Your strands will thank you! Pro tip: this will also help prevent your extensions color from fading (which can happen to your natural hair as well)!
Rinse Chlorine and Saltwater ASAP
If you plan on getting your extensions wet, wetting your hair with clean water before swimming is key because it limits the amount of chlorine or salt water your extensions can absorb. After you’re done living your best mermaid life, make sure to rinse the chlorine or salt water from your hair as soon as possible. The longer that drying chemicals from the pool or salt sits on your hair, the more brittle it can become.
Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate
Deep conditioning is always a gamechanger, but never more than during the hot summer months. Apply a hydrating treatment to your strands and follow the brand’s instructions for maximum benefits. For wavy or curly textures, you’ll need a treatment that’s a bit heavier.
Sleep Care is Self-Care
Wrapping your hair at night is one of the main ways you can add longevity to the life of your extensions. Straight extensions wearers can wrap their hair in a classic “doobie” style to keep things flat-iron fresh - think silk press preservation! Body wave girlies, try heatless curlers or flexi-rods. For wavy or curly textures, put your hair in braids before wrapping to keep curls set. Pro tip: sleeping on a silk or satin pillowcase not only helps to prevent friction, fights frizz, and limits dryness, it also does wonders for your skin!
Regular Maintenance
Keeping your extensions cleansed, hydrated, and refreshed is key year round, but especially during the months when we’re sweating and styling more often. Scheduling regular touch-ups with your stylist can ensure that your braid down is completely dry underneath after shampooing, and maintaining natural health is the most important point of all. Remember, extensions are supposed to be a protective style.
